MAHLE OC 236 vs WIX 51521: Oil Filter Compatibility

Compare MAHLE OC 236 and WIX 51521 oil filters by compatibility, dimensions, thread size, gasket fit, bypass valve, anti-drainback valve status, and match confidence. Use this comparison as a fitment review, not as an automatic substitution guarantee. Both use a 3/4-16 thread.

Quick verdict

RISKY

Both use a 3/4-16 thread.

  • Thread size is the first hard-fit check for any comparison of spin-on filters.
  • Gasket OD and gasket ID are the most important seal-related dimensions.
  • Height differences can matter for clearance even when thread and gasket fit appear close.
  • Bypass and anti-drainback differences may be important, depending on the application.

MAHLE OC 236 and WIX 51521 specifications

How matching is scored
Specification
MAHLE OC 236
WIX 51521
Thread size3/4-163/4-16
Gasket OD72 mm71.98 mm
Gasket ID62 mm62.53 mm
Can OD92.96 mm92.99 mm
Height93.98 mm96.01 mm
Internal bypass valveYesYes
Bypass PSID12 - 158 - 11
Anti-drainback valveYesYes

What matters in this specific comparison

Thread size matches: both are 3/4-16.

Gasket OD is identical at 72 mm.

Gasket ID differs by 0.5 mm (MAHLE OC 236: 62 mm, WIX 51521: 62.53 mm).

WIX 51521 is 2 mm taller (MAHLE OC 236: 93.98 mm, WIX 51521: 96.01 mm) -- check clearance before substituting.

Can OD is identical at 92.96 mm.

Both open their bypass valve in a comparable range: MAHLE OC 236 at 12-15 psi, WIX 51521 at 8-11 psi -- these ranges do not overlap.

Open related filters

Before substituting, verify thread fit, gasket sealing dimensions, height clearance, bypass behavior, and anti-drainback requirements for your specific application.

OC 236 vs 51521 Oil Filter Comparison | Filter-Match